Note: This performance review was created when the 2017 Cadillac Escalade was new.
Performance: | 7.6 |
Thanks to a strapping V8 engine and a well-geared automatic transmission, getting up to speed in a 2017 Cadillac Escalade is a nearly effortless endeavor. This same refinement doesn't carry over to ride quality, though, where the Escalade's truck-based platform yields a rougher ride than many in this class. You'll feel every inch of this massive SUV's heft when piloting it around – especially in narrow areas – though the Escalade is more agile than like-sized competitors.
Powering the 2017 Escalade is a 420-horsepower 6.2-liter V8 engine, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. Power is satisfyingly ample, even with the extra weight of the extended-wheelbase ESV body style. You can pass and merge on the highway in the Escalade without worry, and tow up to 8,300 pounds.
Fuel economy is marginally above the class average for luxury large SUVs. With rear-wheel drive-models, you can expect 15 mpg in the city and 22 mpg on the highway. With the available four-wheel-drive system, highway fuel economy drops to 20 mpg, but city mileage remains the same.
Shoppers expecting a relaxed, effortless ride may be disappointed by the Escalade. This SUV is built like a truck – unlike many crossover SUVs that use a carlike chassis – which means it also handles more like a pickup than a luxury vehicle. Its standard magnetic ride control suspension rapidly adjusts to changing road conditions and helps smooth out the ride somewhat. The available 22-inch wheels are not recommended if you want to keep your ride as silky as possible.
The Escalade's handling is better than you might expect from an SUV of this size, though because this is a truck-based SUV, it won't be as agile as a smaller 3-row crossover like the Audi Q7. Sport mode improves cornering ability but adds even more stiffness to the ride. Front-wheel drive comes standard, and the available four-wheel drive works well, especially on snow or dirt (though the Escalade's size rules out adventurous off-roading).
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